IBWZ – Nadia Bartel

May 28, 2026

Meet Nadia Bartel

Co-founder of Henne, media personality, brand ambassador and mum to Aston and Henley.

We sat down with Nadia in her new Armadale apartment to talk all things design and fashion, building longevity in a fast-moving industry, and what lies ahead for her ever-evolving brand.

We first got to know you through your fashion blog Chronicles of Nadia, tell us about that golden-age of content creation?

I started Chronicles of Nadia back in 2010, which really was such a different time in content creation. It was before everything became so polished and algorithm-driven, so there was a beautiful sense of freedom and authenticity online.

Everyone was sharing because they genuinely loved fashion, beauty, interiors and lifestyle, and blogs felt like little personal worlds you could step into. For me, it was a creative outlet. I loved styling, writing, sharing outfits and ideas, and connecting with women who had similar interests.

There were no paid sponsorships back then and it felt very authentic. There was something really intimate about that time because the community felt so engaged. I actually recently looked back at some of my Instagram posts from that time and my engagement was huge, in comparison to now, but I think there was less noise online in those years.

Looking back, Chronicles of Nadia taught me so much. It helped me build a community, understand the power of storytelling and really trust my own eye. In a way, I think it was the foundation for everything that came after. It gave me the confidence to understand my audience, continue sharing online and eventually create Henne. I have always loved connecting with women, whether that’s through content, style, beauty or now through Henne. I think that thread has always been there.

How has your style evolved from your blogging days to now sharing your style on Instagram with hundreds of thousands of people?

My style has definitely evolved. When I look back at photos from my blogging days, there are a few pieces I can’t quite believe I wore, but that was also the beauty of that time. I was more experimental, still discovering my personal style, and I really loved playing with different looks. In many ways, though, the foundation has stayed the same. I’ve always been drawn to classic, pared-back pieces, but now my style feels more intentional and more refined. I know the styles that work for my body, the tones that suit my complexion, and the pieces I feel most confident in.

Since becoming a mum and growing my business, I also look for pieces that fit into my lifestyle. They need to have an effortless ease to them when I’m in ‘mum mode,’ but also fit into my life when I’m working. I focus on tailoring, neutral-led tones and essentials that can be worn and styled a multitude of ways.

You’re an incredibly accomplished businesswoman, from Spray Aus to the launch of Henne in 2019. Tell us about the journey to get here?

It’s been such a journey, and in many ways, I feel like I’ve lived so many lives through my career. I’ve always been driven and creative, and every role I’ve had has taught me something different.

Before launching Henne, I told friends and family about the idea, and so many people tried to talk me out of it. They would say, “it won’t work, there are already so many Australian brands.” But I’ve always believed that no one will do it like you, because no one is you. That’s your point of difference, and in many ways, your secret sauce.

For us, Henne was never about competing with other brands. It was about our vision and our why. The journey definitely hasn’t been without challenges, but I think those are often the moments where you grow the most. I’ve learnt to trust my instincts, surround myself with great people, and stay really close to the customer.

For me, it has always been about creating brands that feel genuine, and that I truly believe in. That’s been the same with Spray Aus. It’s never been about creating products just for the sake of it, it’s about developing products we actually use, love and stand behind. We love the look of glowing skin, but we wanted to achieve that glow without having nasties and parabens on our skin, that’s how Spray Aus was born.

Henne has become an iconic Australian brand with a cult-like following, what’s the secret sauce to this kind of retail success?

We have always been driven by the idea that we wanted to create something more than just clothing. We stay laser focussed on who we are and who we’re designing for. Our focus from the very start has always been creating high quality essentials that women can wear for every part of their life.

We also stay very close to our customers. We listen to what she wants, how she’s wearing the pieces and what she needs from her wardrobe. We focus on our community and building empowerment in them rather than just selling to them. So, I think it’s that mix of intention, accessibility and our genuine connection with our customers that makes Henne what it is.

Ultimately, it comes down to consistency, quality and trust. We are so particular about every piece we release, and I think our customer can feel that when they wear the pieces.

How do you innovate when it comes to Henne product and marketing?

I am so passionate about what I do and every day I feel so excited about what we can create next. I am the Henne customer, so I just think about what I want to wear, where I’m wearing it and that allows us to always stay ahead. I also think the dynamic between my co-founders Laura, Michelle and I is really special. We are very connected. We have a similar eye, but each bring a slightly different perspective. We are constantly challenging each other, refining ideas, and pushing the brand forward which allows Henne to keep evolving while still staying true to who we are.

What’s next for the brand?

We are really focused on growing our Australian market so we have lots of exciting plans that I can share soon. We also recently launched our footwear and accessories collection, so this is a category we are looking forward to growing out in the future.

What are you reaching for on repeat this season — in your wardrobe or your home?

Lately, I’ve been gravitating towards pieces that make getting dressed feel effortless. Denim has definitely been my go-to. We recently released a new style at Henne called the ‘Claire’ Jean — a lower-rise fit with just the right amount of stretch in a slightly worn-in wash — and I’ve been wearing them with everything. Easy during the day with basics, or dressed up at night with a great top.

You’ve gone with the Zara bed, why did you choose this style?

I have moved into an apartment so I went for a minimal and sleek design that will suit my house now. I love oversized bedheads but went for something more timeless so I know it will suit any house I move into. My interior style is a balance between modern contemporary and timeless design, so I felt this bedhead was perfect for me.

You balance fashion, business and family — where do you find moments of calm?

It’s something I’ve worked on a lot over the years, because I know how important it is for me to have a balance between work, family, connection and time for wellness practices in order to perform at my best.

I’ve found the best way to set up my day and find calm is to start my day before everyone else gets up. I use that time for the things that ground me — moving my body, drinking my broth, writing in my journal and having a moment to myself so I set the right intentions. When I start my morning that way, I feel more centred and prepared for the day ahead.

What’s currently inspiring you — creatively or personally?

I’m always inspired by the women around me — my friends, my team, my mum and our customers, and the way they each have their own sense of style, strength and confidence. I think about that a lot creatively — what women need from their wardrobe, how they want to feel, and how clothing can support their lives rather than complicate it.

Personally, I’m inspired by this stage of life I’m in. Since turning 40 last year, I feel more confident in myself, more trusting of my instincts and more connected to what I want to build. Being a mum and running a business, whilst also focussing on wellness, are parts of my life that inspire me in different ways.

Creatively, I’m forever inspired by the 90s. There was such an effortless confidence to that era — clean lines, strong silhouettes, denim and tailoring. It felt polished without ever trying too hard, which is something I’m always drawn to.

Lastly, tell us about your wind-down bedtime routine?

I’ve become quite strict with my nighttime routine over the past few years — especially since getting my Oura Ring and realising how little deep and REM sleep I was getting. When I tell people they think it's wild!

A lot of people talk about their morning routine, but the night is just as important. I try to be off my phone and away from a screen from 8pm so my body has time to properly wind down. Reading always helps me relax, even if it’s just for 10 or 15 minutes. I’m usually in bed by 9pm and asleep soon after. Of course, that doesn’t always happen with work events and mum life, but I try to stick to it as much as I can. I also avoid eating for at least two hours before bed, take magnesium powder, and keep my room cool.